Battle of the Buds: Bose QC20 vs. AirPods vs. AirPods Pro

Flights, buses, trains, Ubers – whatever your mode of commuting is, the experience is heightened when audibly tuned into something. So, whether it’s watching a show downloaded to your phone, listening to music, a podcast or a meditation, top quality earphones are an asset to the commuter experience.

Not many occupations spend as much time traveling to and from work as consultants. These commuting pros travel all the time, so there’s no better people to review the most popular earphones, than consultants.

Fishbowl’s consultants discussed the pros and cons between the Bose Quiet Control 20 (QC20s), AirPods, and AirPods Pro. Here’s what they had to say.

Apple AirPods

Consultants describe the normal AirPods as “fine” because they’re good for calls and are super convenient. The main issue consultants have with the AirPods is comfortable fit and firm placement, which is improved in the AirPod Pros.

In terms of negative and positive, consultants didn’t have much to comment on – suggesting that the AirPods are no competition when the Bose QC20 and AirPod Pros are on the table. As an entry-level wireless earphone, it will do its job with converting you to wireless for your daily calls.

Bose Quiet Control 20

Taking a flight? These are a go-to when it comes to flying. Being wired allows you plug in and enjoy inflight entertainment, with the added benefit of being able to drown out the white noise produced from planes.

The QC20s must be charged with a micro USB cable, and though they may not have a charging case like AirPods and AirPod Pros, it does, however, have a 16-hour battery life, even when noise cancellation is turned on. A long battery life like that doesn’t really need a charging case.

It also helps that noise cancellation is a setting that can be turned on and off depending on your needs in that moment. Controlling noise cancellation lets you enjoy better sound whenever you choose – with just your fingertips you can reduce surrounding distracting noises and focus on your audio. Or, you can activate Aware mode to hear what’s happening around you – such as important announcements on the subway or in the airport.

If you end up opting for the Bose QC20s, just remember to buy one that is compatible with your phone, as the controls will be made differently.

Apple AirPods Pro

Apple loyalty is widespread, so many people always favor Apple products over all else. Not only are we questioning whether Bose and Apple can compete against each other, but we’re also pinning Apple against itself. AirPods versus AirPods Pro – is the extra $100 worth it?

First let’s start with the Bose QC20. The Airpods Pro also have noise cancellation control, which consultants say has “pretty close” quality to Bose. In comparison to Bose’s small control panel, the Pros lets you control the noise cancellation with a simple hold on the stem of either pod – making for quick and convenient control.

When it comes to commuting and travel – battery life is an issue, especially if you’re taking longer flights. What’s redeeming for the Pros is that a five-minute charge equates to one hour of listening time.

Is it worth purchasing the Airpods Pro over the regular AirPods? It’s a unanimous yes. For everyday use, the Airpods Pro are a good benchmark with better fitting buds that stay in well and sit firmly.

So, what’s the verdict?

Bose QC20s and AirPods Pro both came out as worthwhile earbuds to commute with, whereas Apple AirPods work for the basic phone call. How you travel and what your needs are during that time will help you decide what’s best for you. At the end of the day, Here’s what consultants on Fishbowl have to say:

What is your essential earbud when traveling? Tweet us@fishbowlapp and let us know.